Taking notes in science doesn't mean just copying what's on the board. Learn how students can make their own meaning, from drawing concept maps to unpacking complex vocabulary. These strategies will support your students before, after, and in-between hands-on investigations.

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How do we use water?
Brainstorming

Brainstorming is a great first step to many investigations.

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Student writing
Active Reading Strategies

Have you used notebooks to help your students understand science texts?

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Aquarium observation
Scaffolds for Field Trips

Use notebooks to help students learn actively during field trips.

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girl flipping through notebook
Vocabulary Strategies

Notebooks can help build one's understanding of scientific terms. But should you frontload vocabulary, or not?

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Venn diagram
Comparisons

These strategies will support students as they describe differences and similarities.

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Food web
Science Mapping

Students can map concepts in the notebook to make their understanding visible.